journalist reporter – Kenya
Reporting from Nakuru
Nakuru’s vibrant market is a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds. But amidst the lively chatter and the display of fresh produce, a quiet unease simmers. Mama Njeri, a seasoned trader who has witnessed Nakuru’s evolution for decades, sighs as she adjusts the price of imported rice.
“Everything is expensive now, mzungu prices,” she mutters, using the Swahili term for a foreign person, a subtle acknowledgment of the global currents shaping her daily struggle.
The market teems with activity, a narrow corridor packed with people browsing the wares. Stalls overflow with goods, from gleaming electronics to colorful fabrics, a testament to Nakuru’s connection to the global marketplace. The air is thick with the scent of spices and the rhythmic calls of vendors vying for attention. Yet, beneath this energetic surface, a sense of tension lingers. The faces of the traders, etched with determination, also betray the daily grind of competition and the struggle to make ends meet in an economy increasingly shaped by forces beyond their control.
Mama Njeri’s stall is a microcosm of this complex reality. Buckets of bright red tomatoes are stacked high, a splash of local produce amidst the imported goods. She expertly navigates the ebb and flow of customers, her hands moving with practiced ease as she weighs produce and makes change. But her eyes, though still sharp and observant, carry a weariness born from years of navigating fluctuating prices and the ever-present threat of competition from cheaper imports. The „mzungu prices“ she mutters are not just a complaint; they are a lament for a time when local traders had more control over their livelihoods, before the global market cast such a long shadow.
Further down the market, the scene shifts. The focus moves from the vibrant displays of goods to the worn path underfoot. This road, bearing the marks of heavy traffic and time, symbolizes the challenges faced by the people of Nakuru. It is a reminder that while globalization brings new products and opportunities, it also creates uneven playing fields and leaves some communities struggling to keep up. The people walking along this path, with their diverse clothing and purposeful strides, represent the resilience and determination of Nakuru’s residents.
The story of Nakuru’s market is a story of contrasts: of vibrant energy and quiet unease, of global connections and local struggles. It is a story of individuals like Mama Njeri, who embody the spirit of a community caught between the promise of progress and the harsh realities of an increasingly interconnected world.
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“Our small textile factory used to employ over fifty people,” laments Mr. Kamau, a former factory owner I met on the outskirts of the industrial area, now dotted with more warehouses than active production lines. “Then came the cheap imports. We couldn’t compete on price. Now, most of those workers are jobless, struggling to feed their families.” His story is a stark illustration of how globalization, while offering consumers cheaper goods, can decimate local manufacturing and contribute to unemployment. The informal sector has seen increased employment, as people seek alternative means of income, but these jobs often offer less security and lower pay compared to those lost in the formal sector.
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Repository This shift towards informal employment also impacts government revenue, as these jobs are often untaxed. The pinch of the global squeeze is felt most acutely in the rising cost of living. From fuel prices, heavily influenced by international markets and geopolitical events, to the cost of imported staples like cooking oil and sugar, Nakuru residents are seeing their meager incomes stretched thinner than ever before. The volatility of global commodity prices makes it difficult for local businesses and consumers to plan and budget.
The price of meat, a crucial source of protein, has risen significantly, impacting families with limited incomes.
Crafting a Future Bead by Bead
In the bustling environment of Nakuru, where the echoes of globalization resonate through both opportunity and challenge, individuals like Stephen Mwaura are carving their own paths with resilience and ingenuity. Stephen, a young man with a determined spirit, has found his niche in the intricate art of crafting ornaments from beads. With nimble fingers and an eye for detail, he transforms simple materials into vibrant expressions of local culture and personal creativity, sustaining his livelihood through this skillful trade.
Stephen’s small stall, often set up in a busy thoroughfare, showcases a colorful array of necklaces, bracelets, and other beaded crafts that attract the attention of passersby. For him, this is more than just a way to earn money; it is a testament to his entrepreneurial drive and a means to secure a better future. However, Stephen harbors a deep desire to continue his education and expand his business, dreams that require support and opportunity. He voices a heartfelt appeal to the Nakuru County government, hoping for initiatives that can empower young hustlers like himself to grow their ventures and pursue further learning, ultimately contributing more significantly to the local economy.
Beyond his personal aspirations, Stephen’s entrepreneurial spirit extends to his community. Recognizing the struggles faced by other young individuals seeking to make a living, he has taken on two young boys as apprentices. By teaching them the intricate techniques of beadwork, Stephen is not only empowering them with a valuable skill but also offering them a pathway towards financial independence. This act of mentorship highlights a spirit of solidarity and a commitment to uplifting others within his community, demonstrating how grassroots efforts can create ripples of positive change.
Standing alongside Stephen in his endeavor is his friend, Jesee. While the photograph captures Jesee in a more observant role, his presence speaks volumes about the camaraderie and mutual support that often exists among young entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of the informal sector. Friends and peers often provide crucial emotional and practical support, sharing ideas, resources, and encouragement in the face of daily challenges. Jesee’s presence underscores the importance of these informal networks in fostering resilience and driving small-scale economic activity within Nakuru.
The story of Stephen Mwaura and his dedication to his craft, coupled with his desire for growth and his commitment to empowering others, encapsulates the spirit of many young people in Nakuru. They are navigating the pressures of a globalized economy with limited resources but abundant determination. Their entrepreneurial endeavors, while often small scale, represent a vital part of the local economic fabric and highlight the need for supportive policies and opportunities that can help these hustlers realize their full potential, contributing to a more vibrant and prosperous Nakuru for all.
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There are concerns about the efficiency and fairness of the tax system, with some businesses and individuals allegedly evading taxes, placing a greater burden on those who comply. “We work hard, but so much of our earnings goes to taxes,” complains Peter, a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) driver navigating the busy streets. “Do we see the benefits? The roads are still bad, and finding a good job for my children feels impossible.” The perceived lack of transparency and accountability in the use of tax revenue further fuels public frustration.
The issue of unemployment, particularly among Nakuru’s burgeoning youth population, is a palpable concern. The youth unemployment rate in Nakuru is estimated to be around 36%.
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This high rate is a significant challenge, with potential social and economic consequences. Educated young people, eager to contribute to the economy, find themselves in a frustrating limbo. Globalization’s demand for a more skilled and technologically adept workforce leaves many behind, especially when educational opportunities and vocational training don’t keep pace with global demands. The mismatch between the skills acquired in educational institutions and the skills demanded by the job market is a major contributing factor to youth unemployment.
“I graduated with a degree in business administration two years ago,” says Emily, a bright young woman I interviewed at a local cyber café, where she spends hours searching for elusive job openings. “But most of the opportunities require experience I don’t have, or specialized skills that weren’t emphasized in my studies. It feels like the global market has left us stranded.” This highlights the need for educational reforms and vocational training programs that are aligned with the needs of the modern economy.
The role of governance and leadership in navigating these global currents is crucial. Many in Nakuru express frustration over perceived corruption and inefficient use of public funds. Corruption is seen as a significant hindrance to development, diverting resources that could be used for infrastructure, education, and job creation.
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The lack of transparency and accountability in government processes erodes public trust and discourages investment.
“We pay these high taxes, but where does the money go?” asks Mama Njeri, her earlier sigh turning into a tone of weary resignation. “If our leaders were truly working for the people, maybe we would see better infrastructure, more support for local businesses, and more opportunities for our children.”
The influence of international financial institutions and global economic policies also casts a long shadow. Structural adjustment programs and loan conditions, often tied to globalization-driven reforms, can sometimes lead to austerity measures that further exacerbate the hardships faced by ordinary Kenyans. These measures, while intended to promote fiscal responsibility, can result in cuts to essential services and increased social inequality. There is a debate about the long-term impact of these policies on developing economies, with some arguing that they can hinder sustainable development.
Yet, amidst these challenges, the spirit of Nakuru remains resilient. Small-scale entrepreneurs are finding innovative ways to adapt, leveraging technology to reach new markets.
Nakuru East: Where Art Speaks to a Globalized City
Street art at 58 Business Centre, Nakuru East, showcases the city’s creative spirit and adds a touch of vibrancy to the urban landscape. The mural, a burst of colors against the concrete, depicts two children laughing joyfully, surrounded by sunflowers and other flowers. The artist, signing as „Shades,“ captures a moment of pure, unadulterated happiness, a powerful image in a city grappling with complex realities.
This piece of art, however, is more than just a beautiful image. It’s a statement. In a business center often associated with commerce and trade, the mural injects a dose of humanity and emotion. It reminds us that even amidst the hustle of a globalized economy, the simple joys
of human connection and the beauty of the natural world remain vital. The choice of children as the subjects is particularly poignant. They represent the future of Nakuru, a future that will be shaped by the forces of globalization. The mural, in its own way, poses a question: what kind of world are we building for these children?
The flowers surrounding the children add another layer of meaning. Sunflowers, with their vibrant yellow petals, symbolize hope and optimism. They turn their faces towards the sun, a metaphor for seeking a brighter future. The other flowers, with their delicate beauty, represent the fragility of life and the importance of nurturing what is precious. In a city where traditional ways of life are constantly being challenged by global trends, the mural serves as a reminder to cherish the beauty and resilience of the local culture.
The location of the mural at 58 Business Centre is significant. This hub of economic activity is a microcosm of Nakuru’s engagement with the global marketplace. It’s a place where goods from around the world are traded, where businesses strive to compete, and where the pressures of globalization are keenly felt. By placing a work of art that celebrates joy, hope, and local beauty in this setting, the artist is making a powerful statement about the need to balance economic progress with human values.
The art at 58 Business Centre, Nakuru East, is a testament to the power of creativity to reflect, challenge, and inspire. It is a reminder that even in a world increasingly shaped by global forces, art can provide a space for reflection, a voice for the voiceless, and a celebration of the human spirit. It’s a call to build a future where economic progress goes hand in hand with social well-being, where the beauty and joy of life are not overshadowed by the pressures of the global marketplace.
Nakuru’s Crossroads: Youth navigate a city where opportunity often feels out of reach.
The streets of Nakuru, as depicted in this image, pulsate with life, yet beneath the surface, a sense of quiet desperation simmers amongst its youth. The faces of young men and women, walking with a mix of purpose and uncertainty, reflect the complex reality of a generation struggling to find its footing. These are the young people of Nakuru County, a demographic facing a myriad of challenges, including unemployment, limited access to education, and a growing sense of disillusionment with the very systems meant to support them.
Despite the vibrant backdrop of bustling businesses and urban activity, a pervasive feeling of neglect hangs in the air. Many young residents feel that the county government, under the leadership of Governor Susan Kihika, has failed to adequately address their needs. Promises of job creation and youth empowerment ring hollow as unemployment rates remain stubbornly high, and opportunities for advancement seem increasingly scarce. The lack of visible action on the part of the county government has fueled a growing sense of frustration and resentment among Nakuru’s youth.
The situation is particularly acute in areas like Biashara Ward, where the local MCA is perceived as being equally unresponsive to the plight of young people. Residents claim that their concerns are consistently ignored, and that initiatives aimed at youth development are either non-existent or woefully inadequate. This perceived negligence has eroded trust in local leadership and left many young people feeling abandoned by the very individuals elected to represent their interests.
The consequences of this inaction are far-reaching. A generation of young people, brimming with potential, is being left behind, their talents and aspirations squandered. This not only represents a tragic loss for the individuals involved but also a significant economic and social burden for Nakuru County as a whole. The lack of investment in youth development contributes to a cycle of poverty and despair, undermining the region’s long-term prospects for growth and stability.
As young people navigate the crowded streets of Nakuru, they carry the weight of unmet expectations and broken promises. They represent a demographic at a critical crossroads, where the choices made by local leaders will determine their future and the future of the county. The question remains: will Governor Kihika and the Biashara Ward MCA rise to the challenge and finally address the pressing needs of Nakuru’s youth, or will they continue to turn a blind eye to the growing crisis?
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SMEs are seen as crucial drivers of economic growth and job creation. The people of Nakuru are not passive victims of global forces; they are actively seeking ways to navigate this complex landscape.
“We cannot just sit and complain,” says David, a young innovator who runs a small tech startup in the city. “Globalization also offers opportunities. We need to equip ourselves with the right skills, support local innovation, and demand better governance so that we can benefit from the global economy, not just be burdened by it.” This proactive approach is essential for Nakuru to thrive in the globalized world.
Nakuru stands at a critical juncture. The promise of globalization – increased prosperity and opportunity – has, for many, become entangled with the harsh realities of rising costs, unemployment, and questions of leadership. The path forward requires a conscious and concerted effort: a government that prioritizes its citizens and invests in local industries and skills development, a community that fosters innovation and supports its most vulnerable, and a critical engagement with the global economy that seeks to harness its benefits while mitigating its negative impacts. This includes promoting diversification of the economy, strengthening local industries, and ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of the benefits of globalization.
The voices of Nakuru city residents echo the hopes and frustrations of a new born city striving to find its footing in an increasingly interconnected world – a world where the promise of progress must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary
people. The future of Nakuru depends on its ability to navigate the complexities of globalization and build a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
Brian Ochieng Akoko is a freelance journalist based in Nakuru, Kenya, with a focus on socio-economic issues and their impact on local communities.
